Finnair defends policy after mother slams crew for refusing to feed son.

Commercial carrier Finnair faced public criticism after a passenger, Maria Beydoun, posted on social media detailing a dispute over in-flight catering service. Beydoun was traveling with her young son on an eight-hour long-haul flight from Dubai via Helsinki when the child woke up hungry approximately 40 minutes before the scheduled arrival. The cabin crew declined her request to purchase food, citing the closure of the buy-on-board service. Beydoun subsequently criticized the carrier, known for marketing itself as the official airline of Santa Claus, for its perceived lack of flexibility in addressing a child's need for food so close to landing.

Finnair later issued a statement confirming that the cabin crew acted in accordance with standard operating procedures. The airline mandates that all catering sales and service operations cease around 45 minutes prior to arrival to allow flight attendants sufficient time to complete mandatory landing checks and secure the cabin. The airline also confirmed that no complimentary snacks are provided on this route beyond the initial meal service offered shortly after departure.

The social media post generated significant debate among travelers. While some supported the parent, many commenters criticized Beydoun for insufficient planning, arguing that passengers are responsible for ensuring they have adequate provisions, particularly snacks for young children, during long-haul travel. This incident reinforces advice from veteran cabin crew, who stress that preparation and packing extra snacks are critical factors for stress-free family flying.